It is definitely hot chocolate weather, but those packaged hot chocolate mixes contain corn syrup and hydrogenated oil. Make this time honored winter beverage a healthier treat.

Chocolate & Healthy Eating
My friend gave me a plaque that read, “Chocolate comes from cocoa, which comes out of a tree. That makes it a plant. Therefore, chocolate counts as a salad.”
While that may be a stretch, it begs the question … how does chocolate fit into a healthy eating plan?

Homemade Trail Mix
Homemade trail mix is superior to store bought for many reasons. You control the individual ingredients (no more picking out only what you like from expensive store bought mixes). Use this recipe as a basis for individualizing your trail mix. And get your kids involved too!

Dark Chocolate Olive Oil Cake
Using cocoa powder in baking is nothing new, but olive oil? Believe it or not, this cake is very good! The use of yogurt keeps it moist. Sprinkle with powdered sugar instead of a super-sweet icing, and serve with berries for an antioxidant-loaded dessert!

Medical Misconceptions: Hand Sanitizer
Each month, we set the facts straight on a health and wellness myth.
This month’s myth: Hand sanitizer can replace hand washing
It seems as though no matter where you turn this time of year there is a person coughing or sneezing or worse—dealing with intestinal troubles.

Walnut-Rosemary Crusted Salmon
Double up on your healthy Omega-3s with this walnut-topped salmon recipe that’s ready in 30 minutes.

Prevention as a Primary Focus
Making an appointment to see a primary care provider should not be something you do only when you feel sick.

Warm Pasta Salad with Shrimp
Meal salads are a great healthy option, and this salad includes shrimp and beans as lean protein sources.

Working at Carroll Hospital: Barbara Aluna
Patient care technician Barbara Aluna says she loves her job, but Carroll Hospital makes her love it even more.